Jamaica 2023 - Hampden 900-1000 GR/HLPA New American Oak

“Aged for two years in Europe, although the word ‘aged’ may feel a little exaggerated here. But we are not going to repeat yet again that a Hampden’s age matters only so much. Right, what can we add that we have not already said, except perhaps that 900-1000 gr ester/HLPA at Hampden means ? In whisky, when we do not know what else to say, we sometimes re-re-re-tell the famous joke about the chef who always cooks with whisky, and who occasionally even adds some to his dishes, but in rum? Ah yes, the classic one, is it: “what is the best spirit for watching Formula 1? Rrrruummmm!” I know, I know… Colour: gold. Nose: classic varnish, neoprene glue, black olives, tropical fruits that are almost rotten but not quite, carbon dust, new faux leather, nitro kit for a Harley, seawater, and I would almost dare add a tiny-tiny-tiny touch of durian… With water: the arrival of a few little gherkins in brine. Mouth (neat): I think these are the finest marques, they are extreme but remain relatively civilised, in this very case, you find quantities of different salted liquorices, sometimes with a faint lemony edge. Razor-sharp and utterly beautiful. With water: saline perfection. Finish: much the same, just a tiny bit more on those big Andalusian olives one nibbles alongside manzanilla. Comments: there is still plenty of salinity left, coming to toy with your lips, and it is great fun. Strictly between ourselves, I still prefer this to the already excellent
SGP:463 - 91 points.”